Researching Armenian Family History in Asia and Beyond. Your Portal for Armenian Graves & Tombstones in Asia

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Armenian Graves, Dhaka

Armenian Graves in Dhaka

The Armenian graves situated in the churchyard of the Armenian Church of Holy Resurrection contains several hundred graves, a number of which are written in Armenian.

I have published a book containing photographs and full transcriptions of these tombstones in the hope that what remains now can at least be preserved for future generations in in libraries around the world.

NOTE: As at September 2018 this book is temporarily unavailable.

Dacca Graves Book Cover

Dacca Graves Book Cover

 

Below are some Armenian Churchyard inscriptions for Dacca between 1762 and 1823 extracted from Bengal Past and Present [some of these are no longer present in the churchyard because of weather erosion]

Year of death Tomb or monument to the memory of Inscription
1762 Gulta Michael GULTA, daughter of Parsadan of Erivan ward of Julfa town, wife of Michael.  Died 1762
1763 Ripsima Minas RIPSIMA, daughter of Oham Khoja Minas.  died 1763
1764 Sophy Catchick SOPHY, wife of Mr. Catchick, son of Aga Emniaz, son of Khoja Minas of Julfa. Died 1764.
1765 Dishkoon Minas DISHKOON, daughter of Owen, son of Khoja Aga Emniaz Minas. Died 1765
1766 Khath Owen KHATH, wife of Owen, son of Emniaz. Died 1766
1767 Mathos Martyrose MATHOS, son of Martyrose. Died in 1767.
1771 Joanna Agazar JOANNA, daughter of Ephraim, wife of Peter, the son of Agazar Died 1771.
1773 Gasper Aratoon Revd. GASPER, son of Aratoon. Died 1773.
1780 Athanas Vertannes ATHANAS, son of Vertannes. Died 1780.
1784 Thakuhi Martyrose THAKUHI, wife of Martyrose. Died 1784.
1785 Marcar Pogose MARCAR, son of Pogose. Died 1785.
1789 Joakin Pogose JOAKIN, son of Pogose. Died 1789.
1789 Hosana Johannes HOSANA, daughter of Catchilth Johannes. Died 1789,
1798 Anne Pogose ANN, wife of Marker Pogose. Died 1798.
1798 Mary Foscolo MARY, daughter of Jacob Martyrose, wife of Antani Foscolo. Died 1798.
1798 Galstaun Phanas Bagram GALSTAUN PHANAS BAGRAM. Died 1798.
1800 Thakuhi Aveitmal THAKUHI, daughter of Siman Eleazar, wife of Abrahim Aveitmal. Died 1800.
1801 Ripsima Catchatoon RIPSIMA, daughter of Michael Sarkies, wife of Johan Catchatoon. Died 1801.
1801 Hairapet Marcar HAIRAPET, son of Marcar. Died 1801.
1805 Malchus Peter MALCHUS, son of Peter. Died 1805.
25 Dec 1805 Seth Agacy Sacred to the memory of SETH AGACY, Esq., who died 25th December 1805, aged 75 years.
1807 Arakiel Stephen ARAKIEL, son of Stephen. died 1807.
1808 Marcar Pogose MARCAR, son of Pogose. Died 1808.
1808 Stephen Gardash STEPHEN, son of Gardash of Julfa. died 1808.
13 Aug 1815 Catharina Seth Agacy Within this tomb is interred the body of MRS. CATHARINA SETH AGACY, who died on Saturday, 13th August 1815, aged 64 years.
26 Mar 1819 Paul Nicholas Pogose Sacred to the memory of Mr. PAUL NICHOLAS POGOSE, who died on 26th March 1819, aged 13 years 7 months and 3 days.
1822 Minas Aratoon MINAS ARATOON. Died 1822.
7 Sep 1822 Elizabeth G. Pogose Sacred to the memory of ELIZABETH GREGORY, wife of G.N. Pogose, Esq., who departed this life on 7th September 1822, aged 16 years.
20 Apl 1823 Aratoon Michael Sarkies Sacred to the memory of ARATOON MICHAEL, of the race Sarkies of Julfa.  Died 1823, 20th April.

Some Armenian Churchyard inscriptions for the Armenian Churchyard Tejgaon between 1706 and 1820 extracted from Bengal Past and Present

Year of death Tomb or monument to the memory of Inscription
25 June 1706 Rose Mony Under this stone are deposited the mortal remains of Miss ROSE MONY, who departed this life at Dacca on the 25th day of June 1706.  Aged 30 years.
7 June 1714 Khojah Aviates This grave is of KHOJAH AVIATES, who died at Dacca 7th June 1714.
20 Nov 1725 Simon Soares In memory of SIMON SOARES, inhabitant of Tejgaon, who died 20th November 1725.
1736 Marcar Balthazar In memory of MARCAR, the son of Balthazar of Julfa.  Died 1736.
June 1739 C.H. Minnas Anne Michael In memory of C.H. MINNAS ANNE, wife of Michael.  Died June 1739.
1739 Michael Minas In memory of MICHAEL, the son of Gregory Khojah Minas.  Died 1739.
1742 Arakiel Catchick In memory of ARAKIEL, the son of Catchick, died 1742.
1746 Khojah Thuman Bagd. In memory of KHOJAH THUMAN, merchant, the son of Bagd of Agulis. Died 1746.
21 Sept 1748 John Teake JOHN TEAKE who died on the 11st September 1748.  Aged 7 years.
11 Nov 1748 Mariano Lucas Teakes In memory of MARIANO LUCAS TEAKES. Aged 27 years.  died 11th November 1748.
25 Sept 1772 Mariana Dormieux Here is buried MARIANA, daughter of John and Christina Dormieux, who died on the 25th September 1772.  Aged 2 years, 2 months and 10 days.
12 Sep 1776 Christina Roze Dormieux Here lies CHRISTINA ROZE DORMIEUX.  Aged 9 years, 2 months and 2 days.  died 12th september 1776.
18 Nov 1777 Christinæ Dormieux In memory of CHRISTINÆ DORMIEUX, who died 18th November 1777.
22 Apl 1778 Anne D’Jaquena In memory of ANNE D’JAQUENA, who departed this life on the 22nd day of April 1778.  aged 21 years.
4 Sep 1778 Constancia Leal To the memory of CONSTANCIA, infant daughter of Phillip and Anne Leal, who departed this life on the 4th September MDCCLXXVIII. Aged 3 years, 8 months and 22 days.
1781 Michael Baliekentch In memory of MICHAEL, the son of Gabrial Baliekentch.  died 1781.
1793 Peter Mathew In memory of PETER MATHEW of Hamadan.  Died 1793.
25 Dec 1806 Ritta Rebello Here lies the body of RITTA REBELLO, who departed this life on Thursday, the 25th of December 1806.  Aged 35 years.
26 June 1808 Elizabeth C. Brown In memory of ELIZABETH CATHERINA BROWN.  Aged 42 years, daughter of Thomas Brown. Died on the 26th June 1808.
13 Mar 1810 Anne Maria Doucett Sacred to the memory of ANNE MARIA DOUCETT, who died on the 13th day of March 1810.  aged 20 years, 5 months and 17 days.
14 Jan 1820 Thomas Doucett Sacred to the memory of Mr. THOMAS DOUCETT, who departed this life on the 14th day of January 1820.  Aged 77 years, 5 months and 16 days.

 

 

 

Armenian Graves, Chinsurah

More to be added

Armenian Graves, Delhi

Yet to be added

Armenian Inhabitants of Calcutta 1830

Armenian Inhabitants of Calcutta 1830

 

Extract from the Bengal Annual Register and Directory for 1831
Supplied to me by Caroline Beveridge of FIBIS.
An Alphabetical List of Armenian Inhabitants Residing in Calcutta and its Vicinity,
with their Occupations and Places of Residence, as far as could be ascertained for 1830
Surname Christian Name Occupation Residence
Abraham Sarkies 163 China Bazar
Abraham A. 2 China Bazar Gully
Agabeg Aviet Firm of Agabeg and Co., merchants and agents 47 Armenian Street
Agabeg Lazar Firm of Agabeg and Co., merchants and agents 47 Armenian Street
Agacy J. Head Writer to A. Wight, attorney 7 Bonfield’s Lane
Apcar Arratoon Firm of A and G Apcar, merchants and agents 46-2 Clive Street
Apcar Gregory Firm of A and G Apcar, merchants and agents 141 China Bazar
Apcar A.T. Assistant to A and G Apcar, merchants and agents 141 China Bazar
Arrakill Reverend Johannes Catchick Garden Reach
Arrakill C.G. Up country trader 9 China Bazar Gully
Arathoon Johanes Herapet Merchant 21 China Bazar Gully
Arathoon A.H. Merchant 21 China Bazar Gully
Aratoon Rev. Carrapiet Chater Missionary 34 Lower Chitpore Road
Arratoon  Nicholas Asst. Owenjohn Elias 16 China Bazar
Asphar F.H. Merchant 52 Moorgyhutta Street
Atham A. Assistant to A and G Apcar
Avack Reverend Antone Vicar Armenian Church
Avack Limond Johannes Trader 126 Lower Chitpore Road
Avdall Johannes Teacher, Armenian Academy 7 Bonfield’s Lane
Avdal Elias Acct. &c Armenian Academy 8 Moorgyhutta Street
Aviet Gentloom Interpreter to Sir E. Ryan Kt. 4 Bonfield’s Lane
Aviet Gentloom Junr. Interpreter to Sir J. Franks Kt., and Clerk to Ronald and Master, attornies, and to the Grand Jury 4 Bonfield’s Lane
Aviet S.G. Writer to C. Hogg, attorney 4 Bonfield’s Lane
Aviet G. Interpreter to Sir C. Grey Kt., and Police 131 Chitpore Road
Aviet Nicholas Sexton,  Armenian Church
Aviet N. 4 Bonfield’s Lane
Aviet R. Armenian bath room-keeper 14 China Bazar Gully
Avietick G.A. Assistant to Alexander and Co. 20 China Bazar Gully
Avietick L.A. Assistant to Cruttenden, Mackillop & Co. 165 China Bazar
Avietick C.A. Trader 165 China Bazar
Avietmall A. Assistant to the H.C. mint 8 China Bazar Gully
Bagram G.P. Merchant and Agent 137 China Bazar
Balthaser M. Writer, Prothonotary’s office 17 China Bazar Gully
Camell John A. Clerk Pauper Attorney’s Office 73 Doomtollah
Camell Joseph A. clerk to T. Goldsworthy, attorney 166 China Bazar
Carapiet Stephen M. Assist to Agabeg & Co. 47 Armenian Street
Catchick Arratoon Merchant and Agent 207 China Bazar
Cavorke C.A. Merchant and Agent 43 Armenian Street
Cavorke P. Merchant and Agent 43 Armenian Street
Chater P.A. 2 China Bazar Gully
Chater Gregory Assistant to W.H. Abbott, attorney 2 China Bazar Gully
Chater C.P. Asst. to assignees of Palmer and Co 12 Armenian Street
David Rev. Mesrope Deacon Bishop’s College, Garden Reach
Egeah Rev. Arratoon Armenian Church
Elias Ovenjan Merchant 25 Moorgyhutta Street
Elias Manuel Assistant to Mackinstoh and Co 37 Domtollah Street
Elias E.J. Assistant to General Post Office 37 Domtollah Street
Emin E.J. 258 China Bazar
Emin Michael J. 258 China Bazar
Ephraim R.J. 23 China Bazar Gully
Ephraim P.J. Mariner 23 China Bazar Gully
Ephraim A.J. Mariner 23 China Bazar Gully
Galstan Rev. Johannes Armenian Church
Gasper A.C. Trader 12 Portuguese Church Street
Gasper M. Secret Department 21 Moorgyhutta Street
Gasper S.M. Secret Department 21 Moorgyhutta Street
Gasper Vardan 167 China Bazar
Gasper G.V. Writer Exchange Rooms 167 China Bazar
Gregory A. Portrait and Miniature Painter 14 Dhurrumtollah 
Gregory A.C. Assistant to Smithson, Holdworth and Co 6 China Bazar Gully
Gregory Gabriel Ives 4 Bonfield’s Lane
Gregory Geo Trader 51 Armenian Street
Jacob Carapiet 36 Omratollah Street
Jacob Owen Assistant to Twentyman and Co 36 Omratollah Street
Jacob Johannes Armenian Academy 28 Armenian Street
Johannes David Trader 33 Omratollah Street
Johannes Galstan Trader 166 China Bazar
Johannes Limond Johannes Stable Keeper 19 Lower Chitpore Road
Johannes Stephen M. Sea, Custom House 12 Gree Baboo’s Lane
Jordan Paul firm of Agabeg & Co 167 China Bazar
Joseph Stephen Jacob 133 Khongraputty Street
Joseph A.J. Armenian Lottery Office Keeper 18 Pollock Street
Joseph L.J. Teacher 228 China Bazar
Joseph Carapiet 41 Sukeas’s Lane
Joseph J. Assistant H.C. dispensary 41 Doomtollah Street
Joseph Catchatoor Distiller & Perfumer Old Hurrinbarry Lane
Kaloos Arratoon Armenian Academy 7 Bonfield’s Lane
Mackertich Gabriel Writer to J.W. Hogg 5 Omratollah Lane
Mackertich M. Writer to Stacy and Baillie 28 Armenian Street
Mackertich C. Undertaker 37 Old Hurrinbarry Lane
Malchus C.J. Merchant and Agent 8 Bonfield’s Lane
Malchus J. junior Indigo Planter Kishenaghur
Malchus N.J. Indigo Planter Kishenaghur
Malchus P.J. Indigo Planter Kishenaghur
Manuck M.M. 43 Armenian Street
Manuck John Trader 2 Portuguese Church Street
Martyrose Michael Assist. To Alexander and Co 46 Armenian Street
Martyrose R. Assist. To Alexander and Co 46 Armenian Street
Martin John Asst. Secret Department 29 Pollock Street
Martin  Mathew Asst. Sudder Dewanny Adawlut 29 Pollock Street
Martin C. Joint Record Keeper, Sudder Dewanny Adawlut Bow Bazar
Mallicknaz A.M. 32 Moorgyhutta Street
Mallicknaz M.A. 32 Moorgyhutta Street
Mellickseth N.M. Artist &c., W. of Armenian Church
Michael George Crier to Leyburn and Co 17 Omratallah Street
Michael M.G. Assistant to Allport and Co 17 Omratallah Street
Michael H. Assistant to Allport and Co 17 Omratallah Street
Michael Aram Trader 25 Portuguese Church Street
Minos Paul Assistant to C.A. Cavorke 22 Moorgyhutta Street
Minos Manuel Aratoon Writer to Stacy and Baillie 23 Moorgyhutta Street
Moratcan G.A. Section Writer Marine Board 1 Bonfield’s Lane
Moratcan M.A. Section Writer Military Department 1 Bonfield’s Lane
Moses Owen clerk to Stacy and Baillie attorneys 176 China Bazar
Nazar Avietic Clerk, Armenian Church 4 China Bazar Gully
Nicholas Manook Trader Colootollah
Owen Sarkies Merchant and Agent 25 Armenian Street
Owen Catchatoor Clerk to H.C. attorney 18 Armenian Street
Parsick David senior Assistant, Secret Department 2 Chattawallah Gully
Parsick David junior Assistant, Secret Department 2 Chattawallah Gully
Paul P.J. Clerk to C. Hogg attorney Old Baliah Ghaut Road
Petruse Carapiet Owenjan Colootollah
Phanus Azriab Day School Keeper 27 Armenian Street
Phanus Michael in the employ of J.H. Arathoon 27 Armenian Street
Sarkies S.J. Merchant and Agent 24 Armenian Street
Sarkies C.J. Merchant and Agent 24 Armenian Street
Sarkies  P.J. Asst. in the office of Agabeg and Co. 24 Armenian Street
Satoor C.A. Trader 34-1 Omratollah Street
Shakur M.S. Quvira Lottery Office Keeper 125 Lower Chitpore Road
Shircore M.Z. Chinsurah
Shircore R.Z. Writer to A. Wight, attorney 9 China Bazar Gully
Shircore John Interpreter, Court of Requests
Simeon Moses Isaac Asst. Union Bank 17 Moorgyhuttah Street
Stephen Johannes 29 Chumpatollah Street
Thomick Esaiah Trader 182 China Bazar
Vertannes A. 14 Omratollah Street
Vertannes C.A. Accountant at Alexander and Co’s 14 Omratollah Street
Vertannes M.A. Assistant at Alexander & Co.’s 14 Omratollah Street
Vertannes P.A. Assistant at Alexander & Co.’s 30 Doomtollah Street
Verthanes Chater Stephen Assist. General Post Office 182 China Bazar
Weskin W.T. Colootollah
Zorer Marcar Asst. Secret Department 12 Armenian Street

 

 

 

Armenian Graves, Agra

 

 

for an extract of some Armenian graves at the Old Roman Catholic Cemetery at Agra, click here

The following is extracted from “Armenians in India from the Earliest Times to the Present Day. By Mesrovb Jacob Seth”

Martyrose’s Chapel
The Oldest Christian Edifice in Northern India

Few visitors to Agra know of the existence in that historic city of an old Christian mausoleum which has for over three centuries without the ravages of time and the elements. This Mausoleum which is not built of marble, like the world-famed Taj, is nevertheless the oldest Christian structure in Northern India, having been erected in 1611 at the old Armenian Cemetery of Agra over the grave of a very wealthy and highly pious and charitable Armenian merchant, Khojah Martyrose.  And as the name Martyrose means Martyr in the Armenian language, the place has been called “Martyr’s Chapel”, which is a misnomer, if not misleading, as the Armenian merchant Martyrose who lies buried in that Mortuary Chapel, did not win a martyr’s glorious crown.

It is an octagonal building of masonry surmounted by a beautiful dome, with a cross on the cupola over the dome.  As you enter the chapel, you will find, on the right hand niche, two mural tablets of sandstone, one with an inscription in Armenian at the head, and the other with a Persian inscription at the foot of the grave of the pious Armenian merchant.”


The transliteration of the Persian inscription (above) is as follows:

“Inja madfoon asth Khwajeh Martinus Armanee moqdesee khe khod ra qolam a Christhus me gofth va choon saheb a khair bood har cheh ba khod dashth beh nazr a an hazrath beh foqera isar khard. Ekh hezar shish sad o yazda az thavallode a hazrath a Isa”

The Archaeological Department have, in the interest of archaeology, placed a white marble slab over the grave of the Armenian Martyrose, with the following inscription which is a translation, though not a correct one, of the Persian inscription, which says:

“Here lies holy khwaja Mortenepus, Armenian, who was a professed disciple of Christus and who was a righteous man, whatever he had he gave in charity to the poor, in token of fidelity to his adored master.  In the year one thousand six hundred and eleven from the birth of Christ”

As there are some glaring mistakes in the above translation, we shall therefore give a correct rendering of the original Persian inscription, as copied by us in 1919 and it is thus:

“Here lies interred the Armenian Khwajeh Martinus, the pilgrim, who called himself the slave of Christus, and as he was of a charitable disposition, he gave whatever he possessed, in charity, to the poor out of respect for the Lord. [In the year] one thousand, six hundred and eleven from the birth of the Lord Jesus”

 


The Armenian epitah can be romanized, thus:

“Hangav e ais tapanus Phirbashin wordin Mugdesi Martyrose Juqaie vakhtzanetsav e Akra khaqakhee ev aprankhum yet Astutzo vasun yiur hogon.
Thiv Haiotz 1060”

There have been several translations of the Persian inscription since 1876 by Dr. Fuhrer and others, but none of them have been rendered into English correctly, but the Armenian inscription is being translated here for the first time and it is as follows:

“In this tomb rested the pilgrim Martyrose, son of Pheerbashee of Julfa.  Died at the city of Agra and gave his goods to God for his soul, in the year 1060 of the Armenian era“.[follow the link for an explanation on the dates of the era]

The Armenian era commenced in the year 551 A.D. so that the year 1060 of that era will be equivalent to 1611 A.D. which corresponds with the date given in the Persian inscription.

Below are translations of old Armenian inscriptions at the Cemetery at Laskharur near Agra (1611-1927)
Extracted from Armenians in India Page 122.

1. This holy cross is in memory of Agah Murad son of Leon of Bitlis. Died in the year 1060 of the Armenian era (1611 A.D.)

2. Bashkhoom son of Satoor.  died at Agra in the year 1062 of the Armenian era (1613 A.D.).

3. Zachariah, son of Amir Khan.  died at Agra in the year 1062 of the Armenian era (1613 A.D.).

4. This holy cross is in memory of Rev. Astwatzatoor, son of Thasaleh of Julfa.  Died at Agra in the year 1063 of the Armenian erea (1614 A.D.)

5. This holy cross is in memory of Egath, son of Atir Asath.  Died at Agra in the year 1064 of the Armenian era (1615 A.D.)

6. Rev. Mekhithar.  died at Agra in the year 1064 of the Armenian era (1616 A.D.).

7. This holy cross is in memory of Sookias, the son of Sqoob of Julfa.  died at Agra in the year 1064 of the Armenian era (1616).

8. This holy cross is in memory of Khamalbeg son of Khojah Soolthanoom of Julfa.  died at Agra in the year 1065 of the Armenian era (1616 A.D.).

9. Zachariah, son of Amir Khan.  died at Agra in the year 1069 of the Armenian era (1620 A.D.).

10. This holy cross is in memory of Petrus son of Pogose.  died in the year 1072 of the Armenian era (1623 A.D.).

11. This is the resting place of Safar who died in the year 1076 of the Armenian era (1627 A.D.)

12. This is the tomb of Safar, son of Mackertich.  Died in the year 1076 of the Armenian era (1627 A.D.).

13. Rev. Sookias.  died in the year 1079 of the Armenian era (1630 A.D.).

14. This is the tomb of Eldood son of Booniath who departed to Christ in the year 1090 of the Armenian era (1641 A.D.).

15. This is the tomb of Johanness of Astabad who died in the year 1091 of the Armenian era (1642 A.D.).

16. This is the tomb of Khojah Murad who departed to Christ in the year 1093 of the Armenian Era (1644 A..D.).

17. This is the tomb of Avetick, the son of Malijan who departed to Christ in the year 1094 of the Armenian era (1645 A.D.).

18. This is the resting place of Aslan of Amat.  Died in the year 1095 of the Armenian era (1646 A.D.).

19. This is the tomb of Margar son of Baqoom who departed to Christ in the year 1096 of the Armenian era (1647 A.D.).

20. This is the tomb of Kirakose who departed to Christ in his young age in the year 1098 of the Armenian era (1649 A.D.).

21. This is the resting place of Murad, son of ……. who died at Agra in the year 1099 of the Armenian era (1650 A.D.).

22. This is the tomb of Alexan the son of Aqniath of Julfa who died at Agra in the year 1100 of the Armenian era (1651 A.D.).

23. This is the tomb of Ayad the son of Amirphajeh. Died in the year 1100 of the Armenian era (1651 A.D.).

24. In this city, which is
Agra, I Zachariah, son of Edgar, trusted in my Lord and found a resting place in the year 1100 of the Amenian era (1651 A.D.)

25. This is the tomb of Agazar, son of Martyrose of the Mamikonian family.  Died in the year 1100 of the Armenian era (1651 A.D.)

26. This is the tomb of Galoost who died at Agra in the year 1103 of the Armenian era (1654 A.D.)

27. This is the tomb of Hyrapiet, the son of Mathews of Julfa.  Died in the year 1104 of the Armenian era (1655 A.D.)

28. This is the tomb of Agah Samuel of the Delakhian family who was murdered by the Jats in the year 1104 of the Armenian era (1655 A.D.).

29. This is the tomb of Hakobjan the son of Khojah Murad.  Died in the year 1106 of the Armenian era (1657 A.D.)

30. This is the tomb of Agah Qarzeh of the Khojentz family.  Died in the year 1107 of the Armenian era (1658 A.D.).

31. This is the tomb of Franc, the son of Gregory the Master mason.  Died in the year 1107 of the Armenian era (1659 A.D.).

32. This is the tomb of Hovanjan of the family of Qalandar who departed to Christ, in the year 1108 of the Armenian era  (1659 A.D.). Aged 20 years.

33. This is the tomb of Bashoom of the Khoobentz family.  Died in the year 1109 of the Armenian era (1660 A.D.).

34. This is the tomb of Vardan of Lunjan.  Died in the year 1109 of the Armenian era (1660 A.D.).

35. This is the tomb of Eaqoob (Jacob) the son of Safar. Died in the year 1110 of the Armenian era. (1661 A.D.).

36. This is the tomb of Agazar of Julfa.  Died in the year 1111 of the Armenian era (1662 A.D.).

37. This is the tomb of Johannes of Julfa, a merchant who died in the year 1114 of the Armenian era (1665 A.D.).

38. This is the resting place of Rev. Johanness, the son of Jacob of Lunjan.  Died in the year 1117 of the Armenian era (1668 A.D.).

39. This is the tomb of Khamal, the son of Jacob. Died in the year 1119 of the Armenian era (1670 A.D.).

40. This is the tomb of Rev. Bagdassar.  Died in the year 1120 of the Armenian era (1671 A.D.).

41. This is the tomb of Mibjan, son of Murad of Julfa. Died in the year 1120 of the Armenian era (1671 A.D.).

42. This is the tomb of Johanness of the Turjamentz family.  Died in the year 1122 of the Armenian era (1673 A.D.)

43. This is the tomb of Hovanjan, the son of David of Julfa.  Died in the year 1122 of the Armenian era (1673 A.D.).

44. This is the tomb of Soolthanoom of the Qalander family.  Died in the year 1122 of the Armenian era (1673 A.D.).

45. This is the tomb of Phanus [Stephen], the son of David who departed to God at Agra in the year 1121 of the Armenian era (1672 A.D.).

45a. This is the tomb of* [name obliterated], the son of Gregory, the Master mason.  Died in the year 1125 of the Armenian era (1676 A.D.).
* His brother Franc died in 1659. See No. 31.  Their father, the master builder, may as a contemporary, have taken part in the building of the world-famed Taj and the other architectural master-pieces of Shah Jehan

46. This is the tomb of Manook who is from the city of Venice.  Died in the year 63 of the era of Azaria (1678 A.D.).

47. This is the tomb of Mackertoom, the son of Samuel.  Died in the year 63 of the era of Azaria (1678 A.D.).

48. This is the tomb of Mackertoom, the son of Arbab Johanness who departed to Christ in the year 63 of the era of Azaria (1678 A.D.).

49. This is the tomb of Agazar, the son of Martyrose. Died in the year 1128 of the Armenian era (1679 A.D.).

50. This is the tomb of Mackertich, the servant of Christ and the son of Joakim. Died in the year 1130 of the Armenian era (1681 A.D.).

50a. This is the tomb of Jacob of Samson. Died in the year 1133 of the Armenian era (1684 A.D.).

51. This is the tomb of Arakiel of the Chinikentz family. Died in the year 1134 of the Armenian era (1685 A.D.).

52. This is the tomb of Agah Carapiet of the family of Ekaz. Died in the year 1137 of the Armenian era (1688 A.D.).

53. This is the tomb of Pogose, the dyer. [Undated]

54. This is the tomb of Agah Zini, the son of Petrus of the family of Zinentz who departed to God in the year 1137 of the Armenian era (1688 A.D.).

55. This is the tomb of Hovanjan, the son of Pogose of the Jrookentz family of Julfa who died in Christ in the year 1150 of the Armenian era (1701 A.D.).

Note: No burials seem to have taken place between the years 1707 and 1774.  Could they have been buried elsewhere? Unlikely, as there was plenty of space in that cemetery for burials.  We  [Seth] know  however that with the removal of the Imperial capital to Delhi, the population of Agra dwindled down completely and the Armenians, who were great merchants and military men, may have followed the Imperial camp, hence the non-occurrence of deaths at Agra between those years.

Another strange thing is that we do not find any Armenian ladies buried in that cemetery from 1611-1777. Evidently no Armenian ladies came out to India, with their husbands in those days.

Note: No burials seem to have taken place between the years 1707 and 1774.  Could they have been buried elsewhere? Unlikely, as there was plenty of space in that cemetery for burials.  We  [Seth] know  however that with the removal of the Imperial capital to Delhi, the population of Agra dwindled down completely and the Armenians, who were great merchants and military men, may have followed the Imperial camp, hence the non-occurrence of deaths at Agra between those years.

Another strange thing is that we do not find any Armenian ladies buried in that cemetery from 1611-1777. Evidently no Armenian ladies came out to India, with their husbands in those days.

56. This is the tomb of Catchick the son of Arakiel. Died in the year 92 of the era of Azaria (1707 A.D.).

57. This is the tomb of Samuel, son of the late Zorabbeg. Died in the year 159 of the era of Azaria (1774 A.D.).

58. This is the tomb of Nazar, the son of Baboom of Charsoo who departed from this world in the year 1774.

59. This is the tomb of Petrus, the son of Astwazatoor, of Arabkir who departed to the Lord in the 26th January 1775.

60. This is to tomb of Pogose, the son of Booniath of Astabad who departed from this world in the year 1225 of the Armenian era (1776 A.D.).

61. This is the tomb of Rev. Arathoon who died in Christ in the year 1776.

62. This is the tomb of Zorababel, the son of Gorgin of Tiflis.  Died in the year 1776.

63. This is the tomb of Mariam Khanoom, the daughter of Lazar who departed to the Lord on the 13th June 1777.

64. This is the tomb of Malcom of Astrakhan who departed to the Lord on the 30th May 1778.

65. This is the tomb of Gabriel, the son of Moses of Tiflis who departed to the Lord on the 12th January 1779.

66. This is the tomb of Elina, the daughter of David Khan of the family of Arqoothentz who departed to the Lord on the 6th December 1779.

67. This is the tomb of Anna, the wife of Martyrose, who departed to the Lord on the 13th April 1780.

68. This is the tomb of Anna, the daughter of David Khan of the family of Arqoothentz, who departed to the Lord on the 23rd April 1780.

69. Thomas the son of Khojamall of Julfa, who departed to the Lord at Delhi in 1790.  His servant Chichroo placed this tablet over his grave.

70. This is the tomb of Anna, the daughter of Satoor, who departed from this world in the year 1783.

71. This is the tomb of prince Simon Khan, the son of Arathoon, who died by a bullet in war and was buried here at Agra on 31st January 1783.

72. This is the tomb of Ustad  [Master] Shah Nazar Khan*, son of Allavery of Qaiquli, who was an expert in the art of casting cannons.  He departed to the Lord with a good faith on the 25th April in the year 1784.* Shah Nazar Khan’s son, Mackertich, known as Shah Mirza, died at Gwalior in 1823 and was buried in the Armenian cemetery at Agra near his father’s grave. See No. 94.

73. This is the tomb of Aaria, the son of Arathoon of Kars, who was called Haghverdibeg.  He departed to the Lord at Agra on the 22nd September 1786.

74. This is the tomb of Captain Agazar, the son of Jacob of Maragh.  He died in the Lord at Agra on the 5th January, 1793, aged 61 years.

75. This is the tomb of Anna, the wife of the late Michael of Julfa, who departed from this world in 1794.

76. This is the tomb of Gorginbeg Orosti, who died in the Lord at Agra in the year 1798.

77. This is the tomb of Merine, the daughter of Manook Khalam of Julfa and the wife of Galoost, who departed from this world at Agra on the 30th March 1801, on a Saturday, leaving her son Agah Michael as a remembrance.  May God preserve Him. Amen.

78. This is the tomb of Marooth Joseph Marooth. Died in the Lord at Agra on the 3rd January 1802, aged 41 years.
There is also an inscription in English as follows:
Here lies the body of Marooth Joseph who died 3rd January 1802, Aged 41 years.

79. This is the tomb of Joanna*, the daughter of Elchee [envoy] Johanness of Julfa and the wife of Petrus of Erivan, who departed this life at Agra on Thursday, the 6th February 1802, leaving her son, Captain Jacob, as a remembrance, who God may preserve. (There is also an inscription in Persian).

*She was the mother of Colonel Jacob Petrus of Gwalior

80. This is the tomb of Johanness of Qauquli, who is called Aivazbeg Khan.  He was a Commandant and died at Agra on the 17th December 1803 aged 52 years.

81. This is the tomb of Anna Khathoon, the daughter of Gorginbeg, the Georgian, who died in the Lord at Agra on the 11th January 1804, aged 15 years.

82. This is the tomb of Stephen, the son of Melik Petrus of Erivan, who departed from this world in the 6th March 1805.

83. This is the tomb of Hripsimah, the wife of Gorginbeg, the Georgian, who died in the Lord on the 8th August 1809. (There is also an inscription in Persian).

84. This is the tomb of Kirakose* the son of Arathoon of Kars, who was called Novroozbeg.  He departed from this world on the 19th July 1809.
*His widow died in 1817.  See No. 90.

85. This is the tomb of Pheri, * the daughter of the late Petrus of Erivan and the wife of Satoor Arathoon of Julfa, who departed this life at Gwalior on the 13th January 1813.
*She was the sister of Colonel Jacob Petrus of Gwalior and as her mother, Joanna Petrus (See No. 79) was buried in the Armenian cemetery at Agra, she was also buried there, the body having been brought down from Gwalior

86. This is the tomb of Satoor*, the son of Arathoon of Julfa, who departed this life at Gwalior on the 17th August 1817.
*He was the husband of Pheri, the sister of Colonel Jacob Petrus of Gwalior (See No. 85).  His body was also brought down from Gwalior and interred next to his wife’s grave in the Armenian cemetery at Agra

87. In this tomb lies interred the body of Rev. Petrus, the son of Sarkies of Karabagh in Armenia.  He died in the Lord in this city of Akbarabad (Agra), on the 15th June 1816, aged 57 years.  Fathers and brothers in Christ pray for him and may the Lord God have mercy on you. (This grave is near the Chapel)

88. This is the tomb of Meherban Khanoom, the daughter of Dabidbeg of Georgia and the wife of Michaejan Thomas.  Died in the Lord in 1816.  Aged 32 years. (There is also an inscription in Persian).

89. This is the tomb of Gabriel, the son of Daniel Agabab of Tiflis, who died in the Lord at the city of Agra on the 26th October 1816. Aged 81 years.

90. This is the tomb of Annakhathoon, the wife of Kirakose who was known as Novroozbeg.  She died in the Lord in ripe old age, on the 1st February1817 at Agra.

91. This is the tomb of Khathlina, the daughter of Jooan and the wife of Astwatzatoor, who died in the Lord at Agra on the 15th November 1818.  Aged 19 years.

92. This is the tomb of Thagoohi Khathoon* (Regina) the daughter of Petrus and the wife of Mackertich, known as Shah Mirza, who died in the Lord at the city of Agra on the 1st June 1821. Aged 62 yeas.
*She was another sister of Colonel Jacob Petrus of Gwalior.  Her grave is next to her mother’s grave in the Armenian cemetery at Agra.  (See No. 79).  Her husband died in 1823. (See No. 94).

93. This is the tomb of Petrus, the son of Gorginbeg Khan of Tiflis, who died in the Lord on the 4th August, 1822 at Agra. Aged 85 years. (There is a long inscription in Persian).

94. This is the tomb of Mackertich*, the son of the late Shah Nazar Khan.  He was known as Shah Mirza.  He died in the Lord at Gwalior on the 25th December 1823, and his body was brought down to Akbarabad (Agra). Aged 65 years.
*He was the son of the famous Shah Nazar Khan (See No. 72) and the husband of Colonel Jacob Petrus’ sister, Thagoohi Khathoon who died in 1821 (see No. 92).

95. This is the tomb of Sophia Khanoom, the daughter of Arathoon and the wife of David George.  Died in the Lord on the 16th may 1823, at Agra. Aged 22years.

96. This is the tomb of Astwatzatoor, the son of Johanness, who died in the Lord on the 21st June 1825 at Agra.  Aged 25 years and 22 days.

97. This is the tomb of Petrus, the son of Barsegh, who died in the Lord on the 2nd April 1826 at Akbarabad (Agra). Aged 43 years.
There is also an English inscrption thus:
Petruse Parsick died 2nd April 1826. Aged 43 years.

98. This is the tomb of Elina Khathoon, the daughter of Kirakose and the wife of Johannes, Jacob of Constantinople.  died in the Lord at Akbarabad (Agra) on the 3rd August 1827. Aged 35 years.
There is also an inscription in Persian

99. This is the tomb of Captain Simon Gregory of Hamadan, who died at Gwalior on the 27th May 1828 and his body was brought down to Agra.  Aged 53 years.

100. This is the tomb of Captain Johanness Gregory of Constantinople, who died in the Lord at Gwalior on the 1st July 1829 and his body was brought down and buried at Akbarabad (Agra).
(He was known as Gregory Khan)

101. In loving member of Magdalena, widow of Petrus Parsick, died 21st January 1831. Aged 30 years. This slab erected by her grandson in January 1902 replaces an upright one of sandstone showings signs of decay. (Her husband Petrus Parsick, died in 1826, see No. 97).

102. Sacred to the memory of Master Petruse Parsick, who departed this life on the 12th August 1832.  Aged 6 years.  The remains of his parents are also deposited underneath:
Happy Petruse early blest
Rest in peaceful slumber rest,
What is life? A vapour past
What is death? A dream the last.
Removed to heaven by God your King
Will angels joined his praises sing

(Inscriptions Nos. 101 and 102 are in English only)

103. This is the tomb of Anna Khathoon the wife of Manook of Kabul.  Died in the Lord on the 4th January 1833 in the Porsa village and the body was brought down and buried at Agra.  Aged 55 years. (Adjoining this grave there is one with an inscription in Persian).

104. This is the tomb of Zorab Simon of Kabul, who died at Agra on the 12th January 1849.  Aged 42 years.  There is also an inscription in English as follows:
Sacred to the member of Mr. Zorab Simon of Cabul, Armenian merchant, who departed this life on the 12th of January 1849. Aged 42 years.
(This is an isolated grave in the cemetery far away from the others)

105. This is the tomb of Mariam Khanoom the daughter of Thomas and the wife of Johanness who died in the Lord at Agra in the year 1849. Aged 75 years.
There is also an inscription in English as under:
Sacred to the memory of M [Mariam Khannom] J. Johannes., died 22nd August 1849. Aged about 75 years.

106. This is the tomb of Anna Bourbon, who died at Agra on the 5th January 1855. Aged 187 years. (There is also an inscription in Persian).

107. Sacred to the memory of D. David, the wife of the late Captain David Shafraz who died on 18th November 1852.

108.  This is the tomb of James the son Mackertich of Agoolis who died at Agra ont he 1st November 1855.  Aged one year and 10 months. (There is also an inscription in English as under)
Sacred to the memory of James Mark [Mackertich] who departed this life on the 1st November 1855. Aged 1 year, 10 months.

109. This is the tomb of Mariamjan the daughter of Mackertich Aviet of Agoolis who died in the Lord on the 27th March 1867. Aged 19 years.
There is also an inscription in English as under:
In memory of Mary, daughter of Mackertich Aviet. died 27th March 1867. Aged 19 years.

110. Sacred to the memory of Mr. John David Jacob. Aged 26 years and 5 months.  died on the 4th October 1881.

111. In loving memory of Pherine Reghelini, daughter of Colonel David Jacob of Scindia’s Army.  Died on 20th February 1919. Aged 83 years and 3 months

112. In loving memory of Phelomina Reghelini, grand daughter of Colonel David Jacob of Scindia’s Army and Major Reghelini of Samru Begum’s Army.  Died on 5th July 1927.  Aged 76 years.  deeply mourned by her sorrowing son*
*Mrs. Phelomina Reghelini’s only son Mr. John Michael Reghelini, was until recently, the popular Munsarim (Registrar) of the Chief Judge’s Court at Agra.  He is a great grandson of Colonel Jacob Petrus of Gwalior from his mother’s side.  His paternal great grandfather, an Italian was an officer in Begum Sumru’s Army.

A word of explanation is necessary regarding the two different eras used in the old Armenian inscriptions at Agra and elsewhere in India.  The great Armenian era commenced in the year 551 A.D., and the small, or the new era was started in 1615 A.D., and was used by the Armenians of Julfa and India only.  The dates in these eras are not given in Roman figures, but in the letters of the Armenian alphabet, which like the Latin and the Arabic, have numerical value.

For instance, the date in the Armenian epitaph on the tombstone of Khojah Martyrose is given in two letters of the Armenian alphabet, namely RA and KEN , the numerical value of the former being 1000 and that of the latter 60, in all 1060.  And as the great Armenian era commenced in 551 A.D. the year 1060 of that era is therefore equivalent to the year 1661 A.D.

In the same way, the date in the inscription on the tombstone of Manook from Venice, who died at Agra in the year 63 of the new era of Azaria, can be converted into the Christian era by the additional of 1615, which will give the year 1678 A.D. (see inscription No. 46).

The following is extracted from “List of Christian Tombs or Monuments in the Agra Division possessing historical or archaeological interest”

In the old Roman Catholic Cemetery at Agra, sometimes called the Mortuary Chapel the floor is made up of tombstone bearing in Portuguese the names and dates of the deaths Portuguese Catholic priests.  Some tombstones in this chapel bear epitaphs in Armenian and record the deaths of the following priests.

Episcopus Zachar from Tabrez 1615
Presbyter Juhannas 1682
Presbyter Patros 1683
Presbyter Pagdasur 1684
Presbyter Arratun 1776

Tomb off Khoja Morteneous, Armenian merchant died 1611.  Here lies the holy Khoja Mortenepus, Armenian, who was a professed disciple of Christ, and who was a righteous man; whatever he had, he gave in charity to the poor, in token of fidelity to his Divine Master, in the year one thousand six hundred and eleven from the birth of Christ.

 

Graves + Memorials India

The drop down menus will take you to individual locations around India that contain Armenian tombstones and graves

Armenian Historical Snippet

Armenian Historical Snippets

Below are some snippets and extracts of old books describing the Armenians in India.

Extracted from “Researches and Missionary Labours Among the Jews, Mohammedans, and Other Sects by Joseph Wolff Published in 1837” Entitled: Armenians in British India

Extract from “the Asiatic Journal & Monthly Register for British and Foreign India 1822.Entitled: “Brief Account of the Armenian Press” (Drawn up by an Armenian Gentleman, for the Calcutta Journal.)

Extracted from the “Calcutta Monthly Journal and General Register” for 1836. Page 465.
Entitled: GENERAL MEETING AT THE ARMENIAN CHURCH OF CALCUTTA.

Extract from Madras in the olden time: Entitled “The First Appearance of Armenians in Madras”

Extracted from “The Literary Panorama by Charles Taylor, 1807”
Entitled: Supplication for Rain by the Armenian Christians.

Extracted from “Researches and Missionary Labours Among the Jews, Mohammedans, and Other Sects by Joseph Wolff Published in 1837”

Armenians in British India

Johannes Avdal, at Calcutta, an Armenian and the author of the history of Armenia, a gentleman of general knowledge, and well acquainted not only with the Armenian, but likewise with the Persian, Turkish, English, Latin, Greek and French languages gave me the following information about the Armenians in British India. The number of Armenians in British India amount to 1000.  They visited India long before the discovery of the Cape of Good Hope by the Portuguese.  A few centuries ago they carried on a commercial intercourse between Hindoostaun and Persia.

“Bolts Upon India Affairs” furnished ample information respecting the Armenians in Hindoorstaun.  There are Armenians at Calcutta, Madras, Bombay, Penang, Singapore, Chinsurah, Sydabad, Dacca, Gwalior and Surat. In all these places they have churches and chapels.

At Calcutta there are 300 Armenians some of them very rich. They are engaged in mercantile pursuits others are employed as clerks in different offices. They have a church at Calcutta, an alms house, built 14 year ago by Arratoon Petros.  The following are respectable Armenians at Calcutta: Messieurs Owenjohn Elias, Sarkies Owen, Arratoon Kalloos, Aviet Agabeg, Sarkies T. Sarkies, Arratoon Apcar, Gregory Apcar, Paul Jordan, Johannes Avdal.

In the Dutch settlements and the Burmese empire are about 30 families.  In the latter they have a beautiful church.

Mr. Sarkies Manook is the only principal Armenian at Rangoon. They have at Calcutta an Armenian Philanthropic academy, founded in the year 1821, solely by the generosity of Armenians.  They study there grammar, sacred and profane history, geography, arithmetic, geometry, moral and natural philosophy etc., the Armenian, English, Latin, French and Persian languages  It contains above 70 students many of whom are the children of parents residing in Calcutta, and the rest are from Julfa, Sheeras, Rangoon, Batavia, Samarang, Dacca etc.  Its funds have accumulated to about 100,000 rupees by the bequests of Armenians. A select library and printing press are attached to it. Mr. Arratoon Kaloos, who was the first to pave the way to the education of the Armenians in India, and who carried on a school of his own, for a period of about 25 years prior to the foundation of the academy, is at the head of this institution; and a respectable European who teaches the classics, is attached to it, and John Avdal himself teaches in it.  Its affairs are managed by four directors, annually chosen from the members. Goldsmith’s history The Vicar of Wakefield, the Deserted Village, Humphrey Prideaux’s Life of Mohammed and Paul and Virginia have been translated into Armenian by pupils of this institution.

Extract from “the Asiatic Journal & Monthly Register for British and Foreign India 1822.”

Brief Account of the Armenian Press
(Drawn up by an Armenian Gentleman, for the Calcutta Journal.)

In the year 1567 the use of the Press began first among the Armenians.  It has been established in many cities; but in most cases, after continuing in operation a short time, it has, owing to some cause or other, been abolished.  It is permanently established in Constantinople and Venice[1]; and at present there are printing offices in Paris, Vienna and St. Petersburgh, which are all in constant employment.

In India the exercise of the Armenian Press began first at Madras, and there is has undergone many changes.  The Rev. Ter Arratoon Shamavon, of that place, kept it going for many years, and printed off a great number of books; but at present the presses of that Presidency are all abolished.

In Calcutta a printing office was first established by the Rev. Ter Joseph Stephanuse, who acted as editor for a time, and printed a few books.  It was afterwards sold.  Mr. Gentloon Aviet succeeded to the Rev. Ter Joseph Stephanuse.  He also printed some books, but at present nothing is done at his printing office.  In the year 1819, Pogose Vardanan Esq., of Madras, had a printing office, which he hade a present of the Aid-spreading[2] Society of Bombay; but on account of there being but few Armenians at Bombay, this Society afterwards thought proper to establish their press at Calcutta, in conjunction with the Literary Society[3] of the same place.  It is now employed under the management of the said Society.

Occurrences relating to the Press at Calcutta

In the year 1820, on the 29th of July, a prospectus was issued by the Literary Society, announcing to the public their intention of establishing a Weekly Journal, to be entitled “The Calcutta Mirror.”  Owing to several circumstances, which a free press is liable to produce, and to the mass of intolerable abuse which were poured out upon its conductors (who were then Messrs. Mackertich A. Aganoor, and John Avdall), the circulation of that paper was but of short duration.  Scarcely was the publication three months old, when the conductors were secretly dogged through the public streets with fencing sticks and clubs.  Discord also broke out now and then between some of the different families of the community, by which the circulation of the paper was greatly injured.  On account of these quarrels, the number of subscribers to the press was diminished by one half; and at last, encountered so many obstacles, the circulation of the paper was unavoidably stopped.

After the discontinuance of the paper, Mr. Avdall’s[4] “Aunkidaz Aunpet” was put to press, on account of which the opponents of the press began to pour forth a great deal of their malicious venom.  After the edition of the above book was thrown off, Dr. Gregory’s Legacy was begun to be printed, it having been translated into Armenian by the late Mr. Mackertich A. Aganoor[5].  Neither was this beautiful Tract exempt from misrepresentation and abuse.  As the opponents of the press were daily increasing in number, and every possible effort making by them to overthrow the printing-office establishment, the Rev. Deacon, Mr. Martin Macketich[6] began to publish several Satirical Poems, in order to check their audacity, and put a stop to their spiteful machinations.  After the embarkation of Mr. Mackertich on the Alexander to the Persian Gulph, their hostility was carried so far, that the conductors were on the point of shutting up the printing-office.  But Mr. Mackertich unexpectedly returning from sea, and observing the state of affairs, published a pamphlet, containing an Appeal to the Community at large, whereby he crushed in great degree their malicious efforts.

After the publication of this Address, Mr. Mackertich’s Comedy was put to the Press.  It is entitled “The Physiognomist of Treachery,” and is divided into four Acts, containing about five hundred verses in poetry.  On the publication of this piece, the conductor of the press was attached in a most unmanly manner, on a Sunday morning, after Divine service, at the church gate, upon which a fighting match took place between him and his aggressor.  The adversaries of the press also gave it to be understood, that on the republication of similar pamphlets, worse treatment might be expected.

Observing that the audacious opposition of his adversaries was not likely to case, he resigned his charge to another person, who took upon himself the editorship of the press.  The latter was also most grossly insulted in the church; his stole and incense pan were snatched away from his hand.  This being contrary to the laws of the Armenian Church, he now absents himself from divine service, until he can obtain legal satisfaction.

The present condition of the Armenian press in Calcutta may be told in a few words.  Very few subscribers remain; but still the business is going on; and a periodical magazine is begun to be published, which is now distributed gratuitously amongst the community.

*We have thought it right to republish the foregoing statement.  It is scarcely necessary to add, that the style of it is very suspicious.  We shall be obliged, therefore, to any of our correspondents for further information.

[1]
In Venice, at the Island of St. Lazarus, there is an Armenian Society established, the members of which are all Ecclesiastical persons, and of the Roman Catholic persuasion.  It was founded in the year 1712, by Mackythar Sabastyan, and the object of it is to subject the Armenian Church to the Church of Rome.  Many books have been printed by this society, some of which are the works of our ancestors, some translations from European languages, and some written by themselves.  The type they at present use is preferable to that of any other Armenian books in print.

[2]
In the year 1815 a Society was established at Bombay, entitled “Ochanaspeur” or “Aid-spreading.”  The object of this was to preserve the adherence of the Armenian community to their own Church, and to promote knowledge and science by printing useful books, either original compositions or translations, and distributing them gratuitously amongst the community.  They have now many works on hand read for publication, but owing to the insufficiency of means, they remain unprinted.  The following are the members of the Society: Marcus Joseph (Chairman); Lukas Joseph, Martin Mackertich, Mathew Joseph, Carapiet Chatoor.

[3]
In the year 1818 a Society was established in Calcutta, entitled “Imastakhundir” or the “Literary Society.”  Their object is the same at that of the Society of Bombay.  Two books have been translated from the English, and already printed by the Society; and they have on hand many works ready for publication.  The members of that Society are as follow:

Mackertich A. Aganoor (Chairman); Lazus Agabeg, John Avdall, Sarkies J. Sarkies.

[4]
Mr. John Avdall is nineteen years of age, and was born in Shirauz, in Persia.  He was sent by his parents to Mr. Arratoon Kaloo’s school, at Calcutta, where he received instruction in the Armenian and English languages.  The “Aunkidaz Aunpet” (which signifies “useless to those who are stupids”) is therefore dedicated to Mr. Kaloos.  This book is compiled and translated from the Elegant Extracts, and abounds chiefly with portions of the beautiful writings of Addison, Johnson, Blair Etc.  It contains about three hundred and fourteen pages, and a brief biographical sketch of the authors is attached to it.

[5]
Mr. Mackertich A. Aganoor was a native of Bussorah, and educated in Bombay in the Armenian and English languages.  He died on the 29th March last [1821], in the twenty-fourth year of his age.  His translation of Gregory’s Legacy is dedicated to his sister-in-law, Mrs. Agabeg.  This unfortunate young man did not live to see his translation out of the press.

[6]
The Rev. Mr. M. Mackertich was born at Shirauz, and was instructed in Armenian at Bombay.  He is the first author who had composed and published a dramatic work amongst the Armenians.  An Armenian gentleman at Madras also composed a comedy, but from some cause or other he has not published it.  A comedy was also written by the Aid-spreading Society of Bombay, where it was acted three times.  A copy of this was delivered to Mr. Mackertich that he might make in it whatever improvements he should think necessary, and have it printed; and it is now ready for publication.  The Armenian press at Calcutta being at present under his superintendence, he is writing a general critique on this comedy, divided into three parts, two of which are already printed, and the third is in the press.

Extracted from the “Calcutta Monthly Journal and General Register” for 1836. Page 465. GENERAL MEETING AT THE ARMENIAN CHURCH OF CALCUTTA   At a perennial meeting held in the vestry rooms of the Armenian Church, on the morning of the 18th September, for the purpose of inspecting the annual accounts and electing a new warden and commissioner, Mr. George Aviet was called to the chair; the object of the meeting was then briefly stated, after which the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:-   1st – That subject to a resolution passed at a general meeting on the 8th September 1833, Mr. Arratoon Vertannes be exonerated from office of warden.   2ndly – That Mr. Carapiet Jacob do officiate as warden during the next 12 months.   3rdly – That Mr. George Aviet do officiate as commissioner, in the room of Mr. Cararpiet Jacob.   4th – That a regular deed of trust sufficient in the law be drawn up, and submitted for the approval of the community, at a subsequent meeting, for the purpose of the same being executed by the warden and commissioner for the due management of the affairs of the said church.   Lastly. That a subscription be immediately raised as donation, to enable the managers to procure a suitable number of chairs and punkhas for the comfort and convenience of the congregation during Divine Service.  Extract from Madras in the olden time: being a history of the presidency from the first …  By James Talboys Wheeler   The First Appearance of Armenians in Madras   Friday 4th June 1697.  The Armenians having promised in Consultation to sign a writing for not trading with interlopers, which being deferred for two days, the Leiutenant General (Higginson) sent the Dubash to remind them of their promise; and after several consultations and debates among themselves, this morning they brought one paper in Armenian signed, and afterwards another in English signed, the copy whereof follows viz:   “We the subscribers Armenians here present this day in Fort St. George, by these presents, do give our word and promise until the Hon’ble Nathaniel Higginson Esquire, Lieutenant General of India and Governor of Fort St. George, and Council, that we are obliged from this day forward in whatsoever Port, we shall meet with any interloper, we nor none of us here under subscribed will by any manner of way, or by any means, have any dealing, trade, traffic, or contract, with any such interloper nor any of their people.  And in respect to the Right Hon’ble English East India Company, in whatsoever Port we or any of us shall encounter with any interloper, we hereby oblige ourselves and every one of us, to give advice and notice to all other Armenians not to deal, trade, traffic, or contract with them; but whereas there are many people of other nations who obey not their King, so we Armenians having no King, Company nor Superior, but are free trading Merchants independent of any, so we conceive ourselves no ways answerable for the actions of others of our nation to which we are no ways liable”.   Signed by Nine Armenians  Extracted from “The Literary Panorama by Charles Taylor, 1807”   Supplication for Rain by the Armenian Christians.   The uncommon series of dry weather in the district of Madras gave occasion to solemn service in the Armenian Church at Madras on Sunday November      1806.  After the customary Mass, prayers were read, and the Rev. Arathoon Simeon, the Vicar, in a short discourse from Kings xvii.1.xviii.1.43.44.45. Isaiah i.5. “I will command the clouds that they rain non rain etc” stated instances and reasons of similar visitations with which Providence chastised corruption of morals, and neglect of religious duties in the days of the prophets, exemplified the contrition and conduct of pious men of old, and exhorted his audience to penitence and supplication.   After this, a Hymn, commencing Turn thy wrath from us they earthly creatures: benevolent Lord, spare and do not let us perish etc was sung, kneeling before the altar, with every mark of humility and devotion.  This was followed by an appropriate prayer, and recital pf Psalm vi.xxxiii.li.cii.cxxx.cxliii. the whole concluded with the Lord’s Prayer: in which the sentence thy will be done in Earth as it is done in Heaven, was emphatically repeated by the Vicar, to which a feeling chorus of Amen was audible from the whole congregation.  In their own country the Armenians perform this service on such occasions, in the fields and arid plains.

Armenian Graves, Asansol

The Armenian Section of the Christian Cemetery at Asansol

Photographs of the Armenian Section of the cemetery at Asansol, India are courtesy of Nigel Galstaun (taken in 2013), and Tanya Avetoomyan (taken in 2012) to whom I offer my acknowledgement and thanks.

Just like the Armenian cemetery at Haiderabad which is also neglected and abandoned  what is apparent from the photographs taken on a recent visit to Asansol, is that the cemetery is unkempt and uncared for and unfortunately the Armenian Section appears to have been left to the ravages of nature.

Names of those known Armenians buried in this cemetery

Charles Paul Agabeg
 Edgar Clarence Agabeg
 Harriet Marian Agabeg
 Hector Bettson Agabeg
 Robert Vivian Agabeg
 Hovannes Mackertich Apcar
 Doris Ivy Blossom Arratoon
 Joseph Chater
Elizabeth Hyrapiet
 H.M. Hyrapiet
 Kitty Lucas nee Hyrapiet
 Hyrapiet Jacob
 Winifred Jordan
 Aratoon Catchick Mackertich
 Varthain Mackertich
 Henry John Vardon

 

Armenian Lost Rare Publications in India

Armenian Lost Rare Publications in India

 

Whatever happened to these?

Some rare Armenian publications for sale that were suitable for museums and libraries advertised by Mesrovb Seth in 1937 from his own private collection.
He was selling them for a  few Rupees.

Title

Amount in Rupees

A beautifully illustrated BIBLE in classical Armenian, in the original binding, printed and published by Mekhithar at Venice, in 1733. 250
A complete copy of the AZDARAR, the FIRST Armenian journal in the world, edited, printed and published at Madras from 1794-1796, by Rev. Arathoon Shumavon.  There are three complete copies in existence. 1,000
A Latin-Armenian DICTIONARY (Dictionarium Novum Latino-Armenian) by Jacobo Villolle S.J. printed in Rome in 1714 100
Mosis Chorenansis HISTORIAE ARMENIACAE, translated into Latin from the original Armenian by the brothers William and George Whiston, and printed, with the Armenian text, at London in 1736 50
A complete copy of the AZGASARE, edited, printed and published by Mesrovb David Thaliadian, at Calcutta from 1845-1852. 500
HISTORY OF ARMENIA, in classical Armenian, by Father Michael Chamchian of the Mekhitharist Society, printed at Venice in three large volumes from 1784-1786. 150
The BIBLE in classical Armenian, without illustrations, printed by the Calcutta Auxiliary Bible Society at Serampore (Bengal) in 1817. 50
HORDORAK (Exhortations) printed at Madras by Jacob Shameer in 1772.  This is the FIRST Armenian publication in India. 50
VOROGYTHE PHARATZ (Code of Laws of Armenia) compiled by Jacob Shameer, and printed at Madras in 1773. 50
TRUTHS OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, in classical Armenian, by the monk Johanness of Julfa, printed at Calcutta by Rev. Joseph Stephen in 1797. 50

Where did they all end up?

Armenian Graves, Bombay

Photos taken by the late Professor Omar Khalidi, and the Very Reverend Father Oshagan Gulgulian both of whom have very generously donated them to my Armenian graves in India project generously donated them to my Armenian graves in India project

 

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